An interception in the end zone by first-year linebacker Max Caron allowed the Concordia Stingers to outlast the Bishop’s Gaiters 17-14 in their Quebec University Football League opener in Lennoxville, Que. on Saturday night.
A large rambunctious crowd saw Caron swat Bishop’s quarterback Jesse Andrews’ pass attempt into the air, bobble it twice and come down with it in the Bishop’s end zone, giving Concordia a 17-7 lead with 4:38 left in the third quarter.
Despite a touchdown catch by the Gaiters’ Alexander Fox on the last play of the third quarter, the exceptional Caron TD allowed the Stingers to hold on for the season-opening victory.
Concordia’s only other major came at 14:02 of the second quarter when fifth-year all-star pivot Rob Mackay found veteran slotback Liam Mahoney in the end zone for a 20-yard TD strike. The Stingers went into the locker room with a 10-7 lead at the half.
The Gaiters held the edge statistically, rolling up 298 yards of offence to Concordia’s 239. Bishop’s also edged the Stingers 16 first downs to 14. However, the home team took 19 penalties for 153 yards, while Concordia was whistled nine times for 70 yards.
For Concordia, Mackay went 18-for-32 for 198 yards with a touchdown. Mike Donnelly led the rushers with 13 carries for 37 yards.
Starring for the Stingers on defence were second-year linebacker Alexandre Lemire with 7.5 tackles and a breakup. Caron rounded out the night with 3.5 tackles to go with his interception. Second-year cornerback Nathan Taylor recorded four tackles and an interception.
Concordia returns to the city for its home-opener this weekend. The Stingers host the Montréal Carabins Saturday at 1 p.m. at Concordia stadium.
